5 Frequently Asked Questions About Universal and Accessible Bathroom and Shower Design Remodeling

Do you worry when your Mom, Dad, loved one or friend uses their bathroom? Is this space too small, unsafe and difficult to use due to challenges they have with mobility or vision? If so - you're not alone. The good news is the population in our country is aging - the challenging news is the aging process often does not come without physical, visual or cognitive changes.

Fortunately if you do the right home modifications to the bathroom and shower areas you can improve safety, style and allow them to continue with the independent living lifestyle they desire. The key - using accessible design and universal design remodeling principles to get the project done right. This article will explore frequently asked questions about these two design approaches.

Question 1 - What is the difference between these two design approaches? - Universal design is focused on creating a bath and shower area that can be used by people of all abilities without the need for special changes or a specialized design. Accessible design addresses the specific needs of a person who has a disability. Basically universal is design for everyone - accessible is focused on a specific person(s).

Question 2 - What features should I consider to increase the safety and function of the bathroom, bathtub or shower areas? - The most common bathroom remodeling improvements and modifications include:

• Convert a tub to a walk in or roll in shower (preferably with a low curb or threshold) - This is an excellent safety solution for someone with mobility challenges.


• Add a walk in bathtub - Walk in tubs provide many therapeutic benefits and are easier to enter than stepping over the rail of a standard tub.


• Replace an existing toilet with a comfort height unit- If you have an aging parent or loved one who needs to transfer from a walker or wheelchair to a toilet a comfort height unit will make this process much easier - in addition this type of toilet is easier and more comfortable for others as well.


• Roll under sinkswith lever type faucets near the front - this design makes it easier for everyone (from grandparents to grandchildren) to use the sink.


• Wider doors (34 - 36") that swing out-This modification makes it much easier to provide assistance or leave the bathroom in the case of a fall.


• Install grab bars and handrails inside the shower, tub and near the toilet- Grab bars are a sound, cost effective safety measure when properly installed.


• Move the light switch down to 48" and the electrical outlets up to 15" - This will allow everyone (from those in a seated or standing position) to turn on the lights or plug things in.

Question 3 - Is it cheaper to perform home modification remodeling on an existing home, purchase a new home or move to an assisted living facility? - There is no hard and fast rule on this, but in most cases aging parents and those with disabilities overwhelmingly prefer to stay in existing homes they are comfortable in. Most existing homes (and new homes built for that matter) are not built to accommodate a wide variety of homeowners whose abilities might change during their years in the home. They were built for the "average" user and to keep initial building costs down. Assisted living facilities are very expensive on a year by year basis. In today's economy especially (with lower current resale values) home modification remodeling can be a cost effective and comfortable way to help an aging parent or person with a disability enjoy an independent lifestyle in familiar surroundings.

Question 4 - I want this room to look decorative and functional, not institutional, how do I do this? - Fortunately the products used in universal and accessible design can be stylish and functional if you do your research. Here's some ideas to consider:

• Walk in and roll in showerscan be contemporary and sleek. Hire a contractor who is familiar with selecting the right shower base, using the right types of wall backer boards and tiles.


• Add a sturdy and stylish glass block shower wall - This feature will add style and provides much more support than standard glass shower wall enclosures.


• Purchase an acrylic walk in bath tub - these come in high style design with numerous therapeutic and chromatherapy features.


• Select comfort height toilets, barrier free showers and bathtubs with transfer stations- Major manufacturers like Kohler and Delta have really beefed up their offerings in these areas.


• Install decorative grab bars- These units are now even made of materials like acrylic or decorative finishes to match your plumbing fixtures.

Question 5 - Who can help me with this project?- The reality is most people are not construction experts and are not familiar with the newest products and installation techniques to make accessible and universal design solutions work in an existing home. There are two excellent places to get assistance. First consider an occupational therapist (health care provider) who can evaluate your home and make recommendations on modifications to make it easier for a loved one to get around. Second look for a home improvement and remodeling contractor with specific expertise in aging in place remodeling - they should have specific training and knowledge about construction techniques and the latest products for your bathroom.

Now that you're equipped with these 5 frequently asked questions about universal and accessible bathroom design and remodeling you're ready to begin to not only improve the function and safety of a bath/shower space - but also to improve the style of the bath as well.